Medik8 Ultimate Recovery

Medik8 Ultimate Recovery
7.6
/ 10
Moisturizing
5.4 Humectancy icon Humectancy
9.8 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity

Review

Does Medik8 Ultimate Recovery work?

Based on the ingredient list analysis by CreamScan AI, these are the key benefits you can expect from using Medik8 Ultimate Recovery:

  • Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.6 out of 10.

How moisturizing is it?

Highly moisturizing: Medik8 Ultimate Recovery has a moisturizing rating of 7.6 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more occlusive. It has a moderate humectancy of 5.4 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Glycerin (est. ≈3.0%), and a very high occlusivity of 9.8 out of 10, mainly due to the significant content of Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil (est. ≈6.0%) and Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (est. ≈4.0%).

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

Anti-wrinkle efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, Medik8 Ultimate Recovery has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains Caffeine and Beta-Glucan, two ingredients marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. Therefore, these ingredients do not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, could deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
60
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Microcrystalline Wax
Function:
Origin:
Squalane
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Jojoba Esters
Function:
Origin:
Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Petrolatum
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Saccharide Isomerate
Function:
Origin:
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax
Function:
Origin:
Zinc Oxide
Function:
Origin:
Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Methoxy PEG-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer
Function:
Origin:
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Chloride
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Allantoin
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate
Function:
Origin:
Caffeine
Function:
Origin:
Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax
Function:
Origin:
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Function:
Origin:
Polyglycerin-3
Function:
Origin:
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Benzoic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Dehydroacetic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Epigallocatechin Gallate
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Polyphenols
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Beta-Glucan
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Extract
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Citrate
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
5.4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
19.5
6.0
4.0
2.5
2.0
1.3
1.0
0.3 x 2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 5.4 10
5.4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 19.5 20
9.8
6.0
4.0
2.5
2.0
1.3
1.0
0.3 x 2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.6
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 5.4 10
5.4
All humectants
5.4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
4
2.5
2
1.3
1
0.3 x 2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 19.5 20
9.8
All occlusives
19.5
6.0
4.0
2.5
2.0
1.3
1.0
0.3 x 2
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
Caffeine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Beta-Glucan
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 1.8 3 No
All antioxidants
1.8
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Caffeine
0.3
Epigallocatechin Gallate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Polyphenols
0.3
Beta-Glucan
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 2.8 5 No
All soothing
2.8
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %60
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Est. %9
Function
Origin
C12-15 Alkyl BenzoateA synthetic emollient ester. It works to improve the appearance of the skin by filling in the microcracks on the surface, thereby making the skin appear softer and smoother. It imparts a lightweight, velvety feel.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideA natural occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient, it is a blend of glycerin and two fatty acids, caprylic and capric acid. It creates an oil-based protective layer on the skin, thereby preventing water loss.
Glycerin
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Microcrystalline Wax
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Microcrystalline WaxA white, highly purified, solid substance consisting of petroleum hydrocarbons. It is used in skincare as a strong occlusive and emollient similar to Petrolatum, and also as a formula helper that thickens and stabilizes the product.
Squalane
Est. %2
Function
Origin
SqualaneAn occlusive moisturizing and emollient compound that forms part of the skin’s sebum. The main source of squalane had always been shark liver. Now, however, it is manufactured synthetically or derived from plant oils, such as olive and peanut oil.
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 DimethiconeA silicone-based powerful emulsifier that helps to create lightweight and pleasant feeling lotions and creams.
Jojoba Esters
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Jojoba EstersA mixture of various wax esters from jojoba oil. It is used in skincare products as a fantastic emollient, soothing, and occlusive moisturizing agent that won't leave a sticky, oily feeling on the skin.
Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Crambe Abyssinica Seed OilA fatty oil obtained from the Crambe plant. It mainly consists of moisturizing occlusive and emollient fatty acids such as erucic, oleic, linoleic acids.
Petrolatum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PetrolatumAlso known as Vaseline, this is the most powerful occlusive moisturizer and at least twice as effective as other occlusives. This is why we multiply the petrolatum score by 2 when calculating the Occlusivity of the product. Petrolatum is not comedogenic.
Propylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed OilA fatty oil extracted from the seeds of the castor bean plant with very unique fatty acid composition. It is used in skincare as an occlusive moisturizer and emollient that leaves the skin feeling soft and silky after application.
Saccharide Isomerate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Saccharide IsomerateA naturally-derived humectant that provides moisturization at low levels and is less sticky than other humectants like glycerin.
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrogenated Vegetable OilA solid, butter-like substance that is a highly occlusive moisturizer and emollient. It is a mixture of various plant oils (such as soy, olive, corn, canola, peanut, and many others) which has been refined.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Wax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed WaxA solid wax obtained during the refining of crude sunflower oil. The majority of the wax comes from the shells, or hulls, of the sunflower seeds. It is used in skincare as an emollient and occlusive moisturizer, helping to prevent water loss from the skin.
Zinc Oxide
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc OxideA white mineral powder mainly used in skincare as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA light that leads to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles and fine lines. Zinc oxide can also be used as a colorant to enhance the whiteness of a product.
Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
DimethiconeThe most common silicone in skincare. It forms a silky, smooth film on the skin’s surface and can help to prevent water loss. It also aids in wound healing and can treat and soften scars. Dimethicone is considered to be very safe for use.
Methoxy PEG-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Methoxy PEG-22/Dodecyl Glycol Copolymer
PEG-12 Dimethicone
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PEG-12 DimethiconeA synthetic silicone that improves lubricity and absorption.
Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed OilAn emollient fatty oil expressed from sesame seeds. It is made up majorly of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (up to 45%), and oleic acid (up to 38%). Sesame oil is an occlusive moisturizer that is rich in antioxidant compounds.
Sodium Chloride
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Chloride

You’re definitely familiar with sodium chloride, even if you don’t think you are. It’s table salt! Salt works well with some cleansing ingredients (surfactants) to thicken them into gels. It also acts as a stabilizer for water-in-oil emulsions.

Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Alcohol Denat.
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Allantoin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
AllantoinA fluffy, white powder that acts as a humectant due to its water-loving chemistry and as an exfoliant that helps to remove dead skin cells. It has also been shown to be very soothing to irritated and inflamed skin.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Arnica Montana Flower Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Arnica Montana Flower ExtractAn extract derived from the flower heads of the mountain arnica plant. This plant is used as herbal medicine to treat wounds, bruises, and inflammation. In skincare, however, it is mostly added for fragrance purposes due to its pleasant pine and sage odor.
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate
Caffeine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
CaffeineAn antioxidant compound that is obtained from coffee and tea leaves. It increases the microcirculation of blood in the skin and is claimed to be able to reduce the appearance of orange peel skin (although the research is lacking).
Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acacia Decurrens Flower WaxAlso known as mimosa wax, this fragrant, emollient, and occlusive (moisturizing) ingredient is rich in antioxidant phytosterols.
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hydrolyzed Vegetable ProteinA blanket term used for plant-based proteins that have been processed into smaller chunks. They add to the skincare product's film-forming and water-binding properties.
Polyglycerin-3
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglycerin-3
Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polyglyceryl-3 DiisostearateA vegetable-based ingredient that stabilizes mixtures of oil and water.
Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Benzoic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzoic AcidA preservative effective against fungi, yeast, and some bacteria. It is commonly paired with phenoxyethanol to create a broad spectrum preservation system. Benzoic acid can also serve as a pH adjuster, fragrance, and bulking agent.
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf ExtractComing from witch hazel leaves, this potent astringent and anti-inflammatory extract contains a mixture of various tannins and flavonoids, as well as a small amount of essential oil with a mild, spicy aroma.
Dehydroacetic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Dehydroacetic AcidA globally approved preservative ingredient. It is a powerful fungicide and a moderate bactericide, which makes it a broad-spectrum preservative. Because it is mildly effective against bacteria, it is often paired with stronger bactericides.
Epigallocatechin Gallate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Epigallocatechin GallateA bioactive compound isolated from green tea with numerous beneficial effects. It is an astringent and antioxidant and can help the skin to heal, reduce redness, and treat UV-induced damage.
Camellia Sinensis Polyphenols
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Polyphenols
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Beta-Glucan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Beta-GlucanA special polysaccharide obtained from cereals, mushrooms, yeast, bacteria, and some species of seaweed. It is a promising anti-wrinkle, wound healing, antioxidant, and moisturizing ingredient.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Camellia Sinensis Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Extract

An antioxidant, astringent, and soothing extract derived from green tea. It performs as an anti-aging ingredient in the deeper layers of the skin.

Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Sodium Citrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium CitrateA salt of citric acid that has a salty and tart flavor and is used as a fragrance. It is mildly basic, meaning that its addition to a skincare product can adjust the pH upward.